Weeks After Transplanting Research Articles

Effect of different concentrations of Copper (Cu) on growth sttributes and bioaccumulation in <em>Celesia argentea</em> and <em>Amaranthus hybridus</em>

Cultivation of vegetables in polluted soil has been on the increase following the perceived fertility of such soil. This study investigated the growth performance and bioaccumulation of copper (Cu) in Amaranthus hybridus and Celosia argentea planted in Cu polluted soil. The research was conducted at the University of Ilorin botanical garden. Vegetable seedlings were transplanted into soil pots pre-treated with Cu - 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg; denoted as T1, T2 and T3 respectively, and a control pot without Cu treatment. Amaranthus hybridus grown in soil polluted with 200 mg/kg of Cu gave the highest stem length at 1, 2 and 3 weeks after transplanting (WAT) i.e., 3.98, 5.00 and 7.05 cm respectively. There was no significant difference in stem girth and leaf length and breadth of Celosia argentea grown in 200 mg/kg Cu (P<0.05). However, leaf length and breadth and number of leaves were significantly higher (P<0.05) in C. argentea grown in soil with same Cu concentration at 3 WAT i.e., 4.63 cm, 2.27 cm and 9.17 respectively. Bioaccumulation pattern recorded in A. hybridus indicated that those grown in soil polluted with 100 mg/kg of Cu have the highest elemental Cu accumulation (73.77 mg/kg). Amaranthus hybridus and Celosia argentea recorded highest wet and dry weights in those planted in soil polluted with 200 mg/kg of Cu.

Effect of Poultry Manure and NPK (15: 15: 15) Fertilizer on The Growth and Yield of Tomato (<i>Lycopersicon esculentum</i> L.)

Agricultural practices such as the application of organic and inorganic fertilizers play a crucial role in enhancing crop productivity. The impact of poultry manure and NPK (15:15:15) fertilizer on the growth and yield of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) was examined in Owo, South Western Nigeria. This study employed a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three treatments (No manure as control, NPK (15:15:15) at 200 kg/ha, and poultry manure at 2.5 t/ha) allocated randomly across plots using balloting methods, each replicated thrice. Seedlings were spaced at 30 x 60 cm, resulting in a total of 108 stands across nine plots. Various parameters including plant height, stem girth, number of leaves, number of flowers, number of fruits, and fruit weight were assessed through statistical analysis. Results showed that poultry manure significantly enhanced vegetative growth parameters such as plant height, leaf number, and leaf area compared to the control. At 2, 4, and 6 weeks after transplanting (WAT), poultry manure consistently outperformed NPK in terms of plant height and leaf area. However, NPK showed a superior number of flowers and fruit yield, highlighting its rapid nutrient release and immediate availability. Despite NPK's effectiveness, the overall yield attributes of poultry manure were comparable, suggesting its potential as a sustainable alternative due to its soil-enriching properties and long-term benefits. This study underscores the importance of integrating organic and inorganic fertilizers to optimize tomato yield and soil health, advocating for further research into the economic and long-term impacts of organic fertilization in tropical agriculture.

Implications of the Propagation Method for the Phytochemistry of Nepeta cataria L. throughout a Growing Season.

Catnip (Nepeta cataria L.) plants produce a wide array of specialized metabolites with multiple applications for human health. The productivity of such metabolites, including nepetalactones, and natural insect repellents is influenced by the conditions under which the plants are cultivated. In this study, we assessed how field-grown catnip plants, transplanted after being propagated via either single-node stem cuttings or seeds, varied regarding their phytochemical composition throughout a growing season in two distinct environmental conditions (Pittstown and Upper Deerfield) in the state of New Jersey, United States. Iridoid terpenes were quantified in plant tissues via ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QqQ-MS), and phenolic compounds (phenolic acids and flavonoids) were analyzed via UHPLC with diode-array detection (UHPLC-DAD). The highest contents of total nepetalactones in Pittstown were found at 6 weeks after transplanting (WAT) for both seedlings and cuttings (1305.4 and 1223.3 mg/100 g, respectively), while in Upper Deerfield, the highest contents for both propagules were at 11 WAT (1247.7 and 997.1 mg/100 g, respectively) for seed-propagated and stem cuttings). The highest concentration of nepetalactones was associated with floral-bud to partial-flowering stages. Because plants in Pittstown accumulated considerably more biomass than plants grown in Upper Deerfield, the difference in nepetalactone production per plant was striking, with peak productivity reaching only 598.9 mg per plant in Upper Deerfield and 1833.1 mg per plant in Pittstown. Phenolic acids accumulated in higher contents towards the end of the season in both locations, after a period of low precipitation, and flavone glycosides had similar accumulation patterns to nepetalactones. In both locations, rooted stem cuttings reached their maximum nepetalactone productivity, on average, four weeks later than seed-propagated plants, suggesting that seedlings have, overall, better agronomic performance.

Growth Enhancement and Resistance of Banana Plants to Fusarium Wilt Disease as Affected by Silicate Compounds and Application Frequency.

The amendment of soils with silicate (Si) compounds is essential to promote growth performance and control Fusarium wilt disease in bananas. Two successive greenhouse trials were conducted at the experimental farm of the University of Putra Malaysia. The treatments were arranged in split plots using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replicates to investigate the effects of Si compounds and application frequency on controlling FOC. Si compounds were used at a constant concentration of 0.1%: T0 (control), T1 (13% SiO2:20% K2O), T2 (26.6% SiO2:13.4% K2O) and T3 (36.2% SiO2:17% Na2O). There were three application frequencies by day intervals (DI): 0DI (without any application), 7DI (12× within 12 weeks after transplanting (WAT)), 15DI (6× within 12 WAT) and 30DI (3× within 12 WAT). From these findings, we observed that the photosynthesis rate started to increase from 10.6 to 19.4 µmol CO2 m-2s-1, when the total chlorophyll content started to increase from 3.85 to 7.61 mgcm-2. The transpiration rate started to increase from a value of 1.94 to 4.31 mmol H2O m-2s-1, when the stomata conductance started to increase from 0.237 to 0.958 mmol m-2s-1. The proline content started to increase from 22.89 to 55.07 µmg-1, when the relative water content started to increase from 42.92 to 83.57%.

Optimizing tomato (<i>Solanum lycopersicum</i> L.) growth, yield and soil quality with inorganic n and farmyard manure in Sudan Savanna of Nigeria

Field study was carried out in 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 dry seasons at the Nigeria Institute of Horticultural Research Sub-station Bagauda, Kano State, of Nigeria to evaluate the impact of integrated nutrient management (INM) on tomato growth, yield and soil properties under irrigated conditions. Treatments consisted of combination of Nitrogen (N) urea + Farmyard manure (FYM) as follows: T1 = Control, T2 = 50% N (60 kg N ha-1) T3 = 100% N (120 kg N ha-1), T4 = 5 t ha-1 FYM, T5 = 10 t ha-1 FYM, T6 = 25% N + 7.5 t ha-1 FYM, T7 = 50% N + 5 t ha-1 FYM, T8 = 75% N + 2.5 t ha-1 FYM and T9 = 100%N +10 t ha FYM. A basal application of 60 kg P2O5 and 60 kg K2O at land preparation in all plots and nitrogen was applied in two splits at 2 and 6 weeks after transplant (WAT) while FYM was applied two weeks before transplanting (on air dry matter basis). The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design and replicated four (4) times with the experimental plots (basins) measuring 3 × 3 m. Data were collected on some growth and yield parameters, and soil quality attributes after the experiment on each treatment plot. The result revealed that the application of 50% N + 5 t ha-1 of FYM significantly (p<0.05) improved soil organic carbon, total soil N and narrowed the C:N ratio. Crop growth response was significantly influenced by application of 10 t ha-1 FYM + 100% N when compared to control. However, yield and yield components of tomato significantly responded to combined application of 50% N + 5 t ha-1 FYM beyond which addition of N or FYM did not produced any significant increase in yield and yield components. It is concluded that combined application of 50% N + 5 t ha-1 FYM was found adequate for tomato productivity and improvement of soil organic status.

Field efficacy of Gliding Arc Plasma Activated Water and natural products on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) late blight [Phytophthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary] severity

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the field efficacy of plasma-activated water (PAW) as a novel technology in agriculture together with vinegar, sodium bicarbonate, and plant aqueous extracts against tomato late blight in a complete randomised block design. Ten treatments were evaluated: Plasma activated water (PAW), a mixture of sodium bicarbonate and vinegar at different ratios (25/75, 50/50 and 75/25) and different mixtures of aqueous plant extracts made up of ten plants: Ageratum conyzoides, Eucalyptus saligna, Azadirachta indica, Panax quinquefolius, Callistemon viminalis, Euphorbia hirta, E. cordifolia Laggera pterodonta, Ocimum gratissimum and avocado pit powder. Plantizeb and distilled water were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) in the growth variables between treatments at 10 weeks after transplanting (WAT). All the treatments reduced late blight severity compared to the negative control (100 %) at 10 WAT. Late blight severity on plants treated with Plantizeb, PAW, the mixture of bicarbonate and vinegar (B+V) at 50/50 (33.24 %) and the mixture of E. hirta + E. cordifolia extract (33.33 %) was the lowest and significantly comparable (p < 0.05) to Plantizeb (31.67 %). Tomato yield was 2.24 t/ha (negative control), 28.56 t/ha (Plantizeb), 27.23 t/ha (PAW), 30.32 t / ha (B+V at 50/50), and 27.69 t/ha (mixture of the aqueous extract of E. hirta + E. cordifolia). The PAW, the mixtures between B+V at 50/50, and the aqueous extract of E. hirta and E. cordifolia could be exploited for their bioactivity in late blight management in field conditions.

Falcataria moluccana (Miq.) root distribution seedlings in response to nitrogen concentrations and tillage

Abstract Falcataria moluccana (Miq.) Barnaby & Grimes is an important species for forest plantation programmes in Malaysia and is widely used in the wood industry. However, its root interactions have not been widely investigated due to the limited methodologies and information about the root distribution of trees and crops in forest plantation and agroforestry systems. This study was conducted to determine the rhizotron-scale root interactions of F. moluccana at different tillage and nitrogen concentrations under four different treatments: control, tillage, fertiliser, and tillage with fertiliser. The rhizotron-scale experiment was conducted at a greenhouse where F. moluccana (Batai) seedlings were transplanted in transparent rhizotron tubes (onemetre-high transparent polycarbonate solid sheet) using topsoil and river sand to simulate natural growing conditions. Root Intensity (RI), Root Length Density (RLD), Specific Root Length (SRL), dried shoot bio-mass and root biomass were recorded. Root biomass and SRL were notably higher (25–50 cm depth) at 6 WAT (Weeks After Transplanting), and the shoot biomass (tillage + fertiliser) was significantly higher at 14 WAT. However, plants treated with different tillage and nitrogen concentrations showed no significant impact on the RI and RLD. Fertiliser treatment only, and tillage with fertiliser treatment, showed greater root distribution at the rhizotron scale. These findings contribute to forest plantation and natural forest rehabilitation efforts by helping optimise the soil resources within ecosystems for sustainable forest management.

Optimal growth conditions for avocado (Persea americana Mill.) seedlings using biofertilizer-based approach with biosurfactant diethanolamide palm olein and neem extract

Avocado is a much-loved fruit with high nutritional content. However, its current production has declined due to excessive and continuous use of chemical fertilizers. Biofertilizers can be applied to reduce the reliance on chemical fertilizers, promoting soil health and fertility by providing essential macro and micronutrients for better plant growth. This study aimed to determine the optimal dosage and method for the combined application of biofertilizer, biosurfactant diethanolamide (DEA) palm olein, and neem extract on avocado seedlings. The experimental design used was a factorial randomized complete block design with two factors. The first factor was the biofertilizer dosage (B) and the second factor was the application method (M). Results indicate that a 10 mL/L biofertilizer dosage, 5% DEA, and 35% neem extract show the best effects on plant height, leaf chlorophyll levels, stem diameter, and the number of avocado leaves. The application method of applying to the planting medium yields the best results for plant height, leaf count, and leaf chlorophyll levels. There was an interaction between treatments regarding plant height at 10 weeks after transplanting (WAT) and leaf count at 8 WAT. Biofertilizer application by pouring is recommended as an alternative to inorganic fertilizers for promoting healthy avocado seedling growth.

Determination of Weed Control Efficiency of Pre-Rice Cropping Cassava/Legume Intercrops and Different Weed Management Practices in Low Land Rice at Badeggi Central Nigeria

The experiment was conducted at the lowland experimental field of National Cereals Research Institute, Badeggi. (90 45N, 600 7E, Alt, 70.57 m) in the Southern Guinea Savannah Agro-ecological zone of Nigeria in 2020-2022 cropping seasons The study was to evaluate the effect of pre-rice cropping cassava/legume intercrops and different weed management practices on weed control efficiency, growth and productivity of low land rice. The trial was conducted in two stages. The first (preceding intercropping) The treatments consisted of Mucuna puriens, Cowpea, Soybean, Lablab purpureus and Aeschynomene histrix that were intercropped with cassava (IIT 427 variety), sole cassava and natural fallow were also included as treatments. These were laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design and replicated three times. Cassava/legume intercropping was carried out in January using residual moisture on raised beds that were prepared manually. Plot size used was 12.5 x 5 m with alley way of 0.5 m. Beds were constructed at 2.5 m long, 0.5 m wide and 0.75 m high. Planting of Cassava was done on the top sides of beds in two rows with the intra-row spacing of 0.5 (ten stands per bed) and planting of legumes were 0.5 m x 9.25 inter and intra-row spacing respectively except for soybean which was planted drilled at 5 cm intra row spacing immediately the beds were constructed. The cassava/legume cropping was harvested in August The second trial was the planting of rice on the plots previously cropped with cassava/legume intercrops. The trial was laid out in split plot design. Cassava/legume intercrop systems were allocated to the main plot, while weed management practices:- (i) Application of 4. 0 (propanil at 1.44 kg a.i. ha-1 plus 2,4 D at 0.80 kg a.i ha-1 ( Orizo plusR, at the rate of 2.24 kg a.i ha-1 at 3 weeks after transplanting (WAT) followed by hand weeding at 6 WAT (ii) two hand weedings at 3 and 6 WAT (iii) one hand weeding at 3 WAT, and (iv) weedy check were put into the sub plots with size of 12.5 x 5 m for main plots while and sub plot size was 3 x 5 m three replications. The results of treatments indicated that rice planted after cassava/Mucuna, cassava/Aeschynomene intercrops under two hand weeding and herbicide followed by one hand weeding produced lower density and dry matter. Weed control efficiency was higher in rice planted after cassava/mucuna intercrop. Weed reduction percentage range from 25-45 %, 30-50 % and 45-65 % in rice grown after cassava/legume intercrop compared to rice after fallow in 2011, 2012 and 2013 respectively. Higher rice plant height, higher number of rice tiller/stand were recorded in rice grown after cassava/Mucuna, cassava/Aeschynomene. Rice panicles per m2 and rice grain yield were increased by 72.9%, 83.6% and 84.1% in 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively, with two hand weeding when compared with zero weeding. Rice planted after natural fallow under zero weeding produced higher weed density which resulted in poor rice performances. Rice planted after cassava Mucuna consistently controlled weed growth while cassava/cowpea and cassava Aeschynomene performed much better in rice production hence should be adopted as cropping systems for farmers

Evaluation of Tomato (<i>Lycopersicon lycopersicum</i> (L.) Genotypes for their Reaction to <i>Tomato mosaic virus</i> (ToMV) Infection in Kebbi State, Nigeria

Tomato mosaic virus (ToMV) is among the most devastating viral diseases of tomato worldwide and it can cause yield losses of up to 40%. One of the effective managements of plant viral diseases is the use of resistant genotypes. This research was conducted to determine the reaction of tomato genotypes to Tomato mosaic virus (ToMV) infection. The experiment consists of five tomato genotypes which were evaluated for resistance to ToMV infection under screen-house conditions using Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replicates. The treatments were Dantaya, Danwarai, Dan-Niko, Dan-Heka, and Hybrid Platinum, which are the five most preferred farmers varieties in Kebbi State. Prior to mechanical inoculation, ToMV-infected leaf samples used as source of inoculum were tested ToMV positive using Direct Antibody Coating-Enzyme Linked Immunoassay (DAC-ELISA). Thirty-six (36) seedlings of each genotype were transplanted into plastic pots containing compost and seedlings recovery were recorded two weeks after transplanting (WAT) before inoculation. Hybrid Platinum has low establishment percentage (72.22%), compared to DanHeka and Dan-Niko with both 100%. All the genotypes evaluated were infected when inoculated with ToMV but with significant variation (P = 0.05) in their reaction to ToMV infection. Dantaya recorded the highest percent disease incidence of 50.00% while, Platinum recorded the lowest percent disease incidence of 31.94%. Three genotypes were susceptible to ToMV while, two were resistant to ToMV. The high incidence of ToMV found on farmers preferred tomato genotypes in Kebbi State is of great management concern. Also, this has implication for tomato productivity and yield in the state.

Comparison of Growth Patterns and Metabolite Composition of Different Ginseng Cultivars (Yunpoong and K-1) Grown in a Vertical Farm

This study analyzed growth patterns, biological compounds, antioxidant properties, ginsenoside contents, metabolites, and the annual net production of ‘Yunpoong’ and ‘K-1’ to find the optimal harvesting time of ginseng sprouts. One-year-old ginseng seedlings were cultivated in a container-type vertical farm under a temperature of 20 °C, a humidity of 60%, and average light intensity of 46.4 µmol m−2 s−1 (16 h photoperiod). Growth patterns at 2, 3, 4, and 5 weeks after transplanting (WAT) differed between cultivars. Regarding biological compounds and antioxidant properties, ‘Yunpoong’ took 5 WAT (43.59%; 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazine-hydrate radical scavenging activity, 1.47 OD593nm; ferric reducing antioxidant power assay, 78.01%; 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical scavenging activity), and ‘K-1’ took 4 WAT (0.98 Re mg g−1; total flavonoid contents, 35.93%; DPPH) to show a high content. Two cultivars showed the highest total ginsenoside contents at 5 WAT. Most of the analyzed metabolites had a higher content in ‘Yunpoong’ than in ‘K-1’. In both cultivars, it was confirmed that the longer the growth period (3 − > 5 WAT), the lower the yield and the annual ginsenoside net production. Therefore, ‘Yunpoong’ and ‘K-1’ cultivars should be grown as ginseng sprouts in the vertical farms for approximately 3 WAT and 4 WAT, respectively.

Effect of Hydrogel and Mulching on Soil Moisture, Yield and Economics on Yellow Passion Fruit in Embu and Kiambu Counties, Kenya

Inadequate rainfall is a significant problem hindering the production of most crops in dryland regions. The current study was carried out to assess the effect of selected soil-water conserving interventions on soil moisture, growth, yield, quality, and profitability of yellow passion fruit. The experiment was laid in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) at Kenyatta University (Kiambu County) and Ugweri (Embu County). The treatments were: grass mulch, plastic mulch, hydrogel 10 g per plant (49 g m-2) + plastic mulch, hydrogel 20 g per plant (98 g m-2), hydrogel 10 g per plant + grass mulch, and a control (no hydrogel, no mulch). Results showed significant effects of treatments on soil moisture, growth, and yield of yellow passion fruit at both sites. Hydrogel 10 g per plant + plastic mulch treatment had significantly higher mean soil moisture than other treatments during all the sampling dates. The treatments: hydrogel 10 g per plant + plastic mulch, hydrogel 10 g per plant + grass mulch, and plastic mulch, recorded the highest average vine length. Hydrogel 10 g per plant + plastic mulch treatment had significantly higher yields than other treatments during 46, 48, 50, and 52 weeks after transplanting (WAT) at both sites. Treatments did not significantly affect the total soluble solids (TSS) of fruits. At Ugweri, hydrogel 10 g per plant + plastic mulch and hydrogel 10 g per plant + grass mulch had higher net benefits; 2599.00 USD ha-1 and 2455.10 USD ha-1, respectively. At Kenyatta University, hydrogel 10 g per plant + plastic mulch provided significantly higher net benefit (3390.40 USD ha-1) than other treatments. Based on the results, hydrogel 10 g per plant + plastic mulch and hydrogel 10 g per plant + grass mulch are recommended for yellow passion fruit growers in regions facing water scarcity.

Pruning and additional fertilizer applications affect morphophysiological characters and flavonoid content of winged bean

Excessive leaf production in winged bean may delay the flowering time and reduces the yield, therefore, shoot pruning and additional fertilizer were applied in order to improve yield. The research was carried out at Leuwikopo Experimental Station, IPB University, Bogor from January to July 2022. The study used a randomized complete block design with 2 factors and three replications. The first factor was three types of shoot pruning, namely without shoot pruning, shoot pruning at 15, and 30 cm height. Pruning was conducted at 7 weeks after transplanting (WAT). The second factor was four doses of fertilizers (0, 6.25, 12.5, and 18.75 g of NPK (16-16-16) per plant). The additional fertilizer was given every two weeks from 7 until 15 WAT. The variables observed were the morphophysiological characters, shoot auxin levels, plant nutrient levels, pod yield, pod number, and pod flavonoid content. The results showed that plant’s biomass increased with additional fertilizer, lower relative growth rate and higher auxin content was from 15 cm pruning. The interaction of two factors affected flowering time and flavonoid content. Shoot pruning and 6.25 g NPK delayed flowering by 0.7-1 day. The highest flavonoid content was found in the plant without pruning and additional fertilizer. Plant yields were not significantly affected by treatments.
 Keywords: auxin; flavonoid content; flowering time; leaf nutrient; young pods

Seed treatments and seedling root soaking in biological agents improved plant growth and reduced bacterial leaf blight disease incidence in rice

Bacterial leaf blight (BLB) is caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo), a seed-soil-air-borne pathogen that can reduce 60% of rice yield. The primary study intended to investigate the effect of seed treatments and root soaking with biological agents (a mixture of Pseudomonas diminuta and Bacillus subtilis) on plant growth and the severity of BLB in a greenhouse. A split-plot experimental design was used with seed treatments as the main plot: negative control, positive control (Xoo inoculated), bactericide (streptomycin sulfate 20%) 0.2%, biopriming with biological agents 108 CFU ml−1, matriconditioning plus bactericide 0.2%, biomatriconditioning with biological agents 108 CFU ml−1. The subplots were root soaking: untreated, bactericide 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%; biological agents 106 CFU ml−1, 108 CFU ml−1, and 1010 CFU ml−1. Biomatriconditioning reduced the BLB incidence three weeks after sowing from 10.6% to 1.7% and increased plant height four weeks after transplanting (WAT). Biomatriconditioning followed by root soaking in the biological agents or 0.4 % bactericide increased plant dry weight 3 WAT. Biomatriconditioning or root soaking in the biological agents (106 CFU ml−1) provided the most significant number of tillers 4 WAT.

Response of Lowland Rice as Affected by Seedling Age and Time of Weed Control in Sudan Savana of Nigeria

An experiment was conducted at the Research and Training Farm of Federal College of Horticulture Gombe State (10020’N and 10030’E) during the 2021 rainy season in the Sudan Savanah agro-ecological zone of Nigeria. The aim of the research is to evaluate the effect of seedling age and time of application of post-emergence herbicide on the growth and yield of lowland rice (Faro 44). The experiment consisted of two factors, namely:- seedling age ( 3, 4, and 5-week-old seedlings) and time of weed control by post-emergence herbicide at 2, 3, and 4 weeks after transplanting. Farmer's practice hoes weeding, 7 weeks after transplanting as check and controls i.e. no weeding). These treatments were factorial combined (3 x 5) to give 15 treatment combinations of treatment and replicated thrice. The seedling was allocated to the main plot while weed control was to the sub-plot. Data gathered on weed, growth, yield, and yield attributes were subjected to analysis of variance, and mean differences were separated using Student Newman keuls (SNK ) at p< 0.05. The result revealed significant differences due to seedling age and time of weeding in most characters measured. Generally, the 3-week-old seedling (3WOS) performed better but at par with 4WOS, while earlier application of herbicides at 2 weeks after transplanting (WAT) gave excellent weed control. The highest yield of paddy rice 8849.4 and 9517.2 kg/ha, was obtained from 2WOS and herbicide application at 2WAT. It can be concluded that 3-4WOS seedlings of Faro 44 variety of rice and early application of herbicide at 2wat can be suggested to the rice farmers in the study area.

Growth, Biomass and Nickel Accumulation Assessments of Amaranthus hybridus and Celosia argentea grown in Nickel Contaminated Soil

Agricultural lands used in the cultivation of vegetables are prone to contamination with heavy metals of different degrees, which could impact significantly the physiological performance of the plants, and amassing of these metals. This study was conducted at the botanical garden of the Department of Plant Biology, University of Ilorin, to appraise the effects of nickel contamination on identified growth parameters of Amaranthus hybridus and Celosia argentea, their biomass and nickel accumulated in the vegetables. The treatment comprised of varying concentrations of nickel (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) used to pollute soil, while control soil were not contaminated. Growth parameters (stem length and girth, leaf length and breadth, number of leaves; and wet and dry weights) were evaluated. Elemental concentrations of nickel in both plants were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Celosia argentea planted on soil polluted with 100 mg/kg of nickel recorded peak values for leaf length and breadth and number of leaves at 3 weeks after transplanting (WAT) (4.77 cm, 2.68 cm and 11.83) respectively. Amaranthus hybridus grown on untreated soil recorded the maximum stem length at 1, 2 and 3 WAT (3.50, 3.80 and 5.15 cm) respectively. Celosia argentea and Amaranthus hybridus grown on soil polluted with 200 and 100 mg/kg of nickel recorded the highest dry weights of 0.06 and 3.87 g respectively at 1 WAT. The highest values of nickel concentrations in Celosia argentea and Amaranthus hybridus were recorded in those planted in soil polluted with 200 mg/kg of nickel (3.90 and 3.87 mg/kg respectively). The study revealed that nickel pollution may promote the performance of Celosia argentea and Amaranthus hybridus when cultivated below the threshold of 200 mg/kg which has been established in this study to also enhance build up of nickel in the tissues of the botanicals.

Coffee Plants' Endomycorrhizae Potential to increase the growth and nutrient uptake of Arabica Coffee (Coffea arabica L.) under Field Condition

Inorganic fertilizers utilization is the most common way to increase plant productivity. However, the intensive use of organic fertilizer can harm the environment. Therefore, alternative fertilization by utilizing soil microorganisms to provide plant nutrients is needed. Endomycorrhizae is known as a microorganism that can increase the availability of nutrients and plant growth. This study aimed to determine the potential of endomycorrhizae to increase the growth of arabica coffee seedlings under field conditions. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with 5 replications was used with four treatments, i.e., (P0) control: without endomycorrhizae and fertilizer, (P1) inorganic fertilizer: NPK recommended dose for seedlings nine months after sowing (N 184 kg/ha, P2O5 72 kg/ha, and K2O 120 kg/ha from 400kg/ha urea, 200 kg/ha SP-36, and 200 kg/ha KCl, respectively), (P2) endomycorrhizae: 1:1 (w/w basis) endomycorrhizal inoculum-planting medium, and (P3) endomycorrhizae + organic fertilizer: 1:1 (w/w basis) endomycorrhizal inoculum-planting medium with the addition of chicken manure at a dose of 10 tons/ha. The results showed that endomycorrhizae could increase the growth of arabica coffee seedlings by increasing plant height, plant dry weight, and plant N, P, and K uptake by 15.4%, 23.3%, 52.5%, 90.8%, and 75.6%, respectively compared to the control with 67,5% of root colonization at 16 weeks after transplanting (WAT). In conclusion, endomycorrhizae can potentially increase the growth of arabica coffee seedlings under field conditions.

Allelopathy: an eco-friendly approach to control palmer amaranth using allelopathic sweetpotato

Palmer amaranth (PA) is one of the major weeds in sweetpotato reducing its quantity and quality. The widespread and repeated use of chemical herbicides has led PA to develop resistance for such chemicals. In addition, chemical herbicides are incompatible with the organic production system. It is imperative to find sustainable weed management strategies to provide weed control suitable for organic cultivation and detain the development of herbicide-resistant weeds under conventional crop production. In the present study, seventeen sweetpotato varieties were screened for their allelopathic (weed-suppressing) effect on the growth of PA. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse using a stair-step system. Each plant in the stair-step system had its height (cm), chlorophyll concentration (cci) and shoot biomass (g) measured. The variation in the height, chlorophyll and shoot biomass reduction of PA was significant after the third week of transplanting. Three weeks after transplanting (WAT), only three varieties, i.e., Morado (75%), Bayou belle (62%), and Vardaman (61%), reduced PA’s height by >60% compared to the control. While 5 WAT, four varieties, i.e., 529 (93%), Morado (93%), Heartogold (85%), and Centennial (81%), reduced PA height by >80%. Hatteras, Centennial, and 529 reduced the chlorophyll content of PA by >50%. In the presence of Beauregard, the commercial cultivar, there was no reduction in shoot biomass of PA. Cluster analysis also demonstrated that the four allelopathic sweetpotato varieties, i.e., Heart-O-Gold, Centennial, 529, and Morado, were clustered together, indicating that these varieties have similar potential to suppress the growth and development of PA. Combining allelopathic sweetpotato cultivars (Heart-O-Gold, Centennial, 529, and Morado) with other sustainable weed control measures, such as cover crops and hand-weeding, can improve the weed management, espicially in organic farming. However, field experiments should be conducted to confirm the allelopathic as well as yield potential of these varieties in an agronomic setting. The availability of the allelopathic sweetpotato cultivars will benefit organic producers by enhancing crop productivity and decrease reliance on chemical herbicides in conventional farming systems.

Effect of foliar application of moringa leaf extract on growth and fruit yield of Capsicum annuum L. (chilli) cv. MIPC-1

This study was carried out in the Crop Farm of Eastern University, Sri Lanka during the period from January to May 2019 to ascertain the effect of foliar application of moringa leaf extract (MLE) on growth and fruit yield of Capsicum annum L.cv (chilli) MIPC-1. This investigation was followed in a pot experiment with Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with seven treatments and seven replicates. The concentrations of Moringa leaf extract were 10%, 20%, 30% in addition to 0% (distilled water) as control. The treatments included were; T0 - control (Distilled water), T1 - 10% MLE at once a week interval, T2 - 10% MLE at once in two weeks interval, T3 - 20% MLE at once a week interval, T4 - 20% MLE at once in two weeks interval, T5 - 30% MLE at once a week interval and T6 - 30% MLE at once in two weeks interval. The Moringa oleifera leaf extract was sprayed on leaves and axial parts starting from two weeks after transplanting (WAT) and it was continued until pod formation. 25 ml of MLE was sprayed per plant. The results of the experiment showed that the foliar application of MLE with 10% concentration at one-week interval had significant (p<0.05) effects on the plant height, number of branches/plant, dry weight of leaves/plant, stems/plant, roots/plant, fruit/plant and total dry of plant were statistically analysed using Statistically Analytical Software (SAS). The results indicated that the foliar application of moringa leaf extract stimulated the growth and fruit yield of chilli. Based on the results, it was concluded that MLE helps in improving the growth and fruit yield of Chilli and MLE with 10% concentration at one-week interval is recommended for improved growth and fruit yield of Capsicum annuum L.cv.(Chilli) MIPC-1.

Hyperspectral plant sensing for differentiating glyphosate‐resistant and glyphosate‐susceptible johnsongrass through machine learning algorithms

Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense) is one of the weeds that evolves resistance to glyphosate [N-(phosphonomethyl)-glycine], the most widely used herbicide, and the weed may cause agronomic troublesome in the southern USA. This paper reports a study on developing a hyperspectral plant sensing approach to explore the spectral features of glyphosate-resistant (GR) and glyphosate-sensitive (GS) plants to evaluate this approach using machine learning algorithms to differentiate between GR and GS plants. On average, GR plants have higher spectral reflectance compared with GS plants. The sensitive spectral bands were optimally selected using the successive projections algorithm respectively wrapped with the machine learning algorithms of k-nearest neighbors (KNN), random forest (RF), and support vector machine (SVM) with Fisher linear discriminant analysis (FLDA) to classify between GS and GS plants. At 3 weeks after transplanting (WAT) KNN and SVM could not acceptably classify the GR and GS plants but they improved significantly with the stages to have their overall accuracies reaching 73% and 77%, respectively, at 5 WAT. RF and FLDA had a better ability to classify the plants at 3 WAT but RF was low in accuracy at 2 WAT while FLDA dropped accuracy to 50% at 4 WAT from 57% at 3 WAT and raised it to 73% at 5 WAT. Previous studies were conducted developing the hyperspectral imaging approach to differentiate GR Palmer amaranth from GS Palmer amaranth and GR Italian ryegrass from GS Italian ryegrass with classification accuracies of 90% and 80%, respectively. This study demonstrated that the hyperspectral plant sensing approach could be developed to differentiate GR johnsongrass from glyphosate-sensitive GS johnsongrass with the highest classification accuracy of 77%. The comparison with our previous studies indicated that the similar hyperspectral approach could be used and transferred from classification across different GR and GS weed biotypes, such as Palmer amaranth, Italian ryegrass and johnsongrass, so it is highly possible for classification of more other GR and GS weed biotypes as well. On the basis of classic pattern recognition approaches the process of plant classification can be enhanced by modeling using machine learning algorithms. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.